The National Intimate Partner Violence and Sexual Assault Survey (NISVS), an ongoing, nationally representative telephone survey of 16,507 (9,086 women) adults, documented that at least one in seven women have experienced a lifetime injury as a result of rape, physical violence and/or stalking by an intimate partner. Based on these rates, injury is a risk factor for negative mental health consequences, such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression.

Terri Weaver, Ph.D.

Population projections indicate that 17,640,000 victims have experienced an IPV-related injury. Physical injury also has mental health implications, including significant risk for pain, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression.

Physical injury can include acute effects such as bruises, cuts and fractures but as these acute injuries heal they also can leave lasting appearance-related changes, such as marks or scars.

Weaver is currently examining the psychological impact of these marks and scars on victims of intimate partner violence, including examining associations with PTSD, depression and body image concerns. The study is using interviews, self-report and psycho-physiological recording.

For further information about the study and a confidential screening, call (314) 977-2194.